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Addition in funding makes Plus Industries more accessible

Aug 29, 2017 | 10:53 PM

An aging building in Melfort will soon see an upgrade in their facilities courtesy of the Saskatchewan Disability Strategy.

The strategy, which was adopted by the provincial government in 2015, focuses on six key areas for people experiencing disabilities – including navigation and residential services.

Plus Industries offers support to adults with a disability. With the addition of $100,000 from the ministry of Social Services, General Manager Lenny Baerwald said Plus Industries will make their main location in Melfort more accessible.

“We have an aging building that was identified with a number of deficiencies,” Baerwald said. “Accessibility was an issue so in order to provide supports to the people that attend our programming, it was absolutely essential to upgrade our facility.”

The general manager said the front of the existing building will see a 1,600 square foot addition and the rest of the building will see “barrier-free” upgrades. Handicapped washrooms will be added, as will electric opening doors and a covered, wheelchair friendly entrance is included in the final design.

Baerwald said Plus Industries had initially looked for a new facility, but financial realities made refurbishing and upgrading the better option. The current headquarters is the main provider for services around Melfort, houses the day program and includes their supportive employment program.

Baerwald said the work for the renovation and upgrade process is well under way. Plus Industries expects to recieve tenders by the end of next month.

“Work should start before Christmas, but definitely has to be done by March 15, 2018,” Baerwald said.

Baerwald said Plus Industries provides roughly 60 day program positions and 23 living programs for for adults who experience a disability.

The day program exists so people who are more greatly impacted with their disability can work in-centre. On top of being the SARCAN depot, Plus Industries is also the recycler for the city of Melfort.

“We just appreciate the support of the provincial government and our community,” Baerwald said. “The community has supported us in every project we’ve done and recognized the importance of supporting people with disability.”

 

Bryan.Eneas@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @BryanEneas